#Improvement and Assurance Panel

[insidecroydon]

Government must act to end the chaos, austerity and decline

New dawn fades?: even getting rid of the £82,000 per year ‘executive’ Mayor won’t solve Croydon Council’s problems Will Labour’s council reforms announced this week build a new Jerusalem in our hard-pressed town halls? ANDREW FISHER analyses the government’s English Devolution White Paper, and what it might mean for Croydon ‘Stability, investment and reform’: deputy PM announcing her devolution…

[ltash]

The Bodyguard pt-1

Part 2 & 3 link in the end.

SimonGhostRileyxfemalereader

The boardroom was sleek, modern, and imposing, with dark wood panelling and a sprawling glass table. Sunlight filtered through the floor-to-ceiling windows, casting sharp shadows across the faces of the people who had slowly filed in, each flashing rehearsed smiles in your direction. You leaned back in your chair, absentmindedly chewing on the end of a sleek silver pen, your eyes sharp, taking in every movement, every fake expression.

Five guards stood silently behind you, their presence a subtle but unmistakable reminder of your authority. You were untouchable here, or at least, that's what you needed them to believe. As the CEO and heiress of Aventis Pharmaceuticals, a company built on generational influence, you knew there were black sheep lurking within your empire. You could feel it in the way certain board members avoided your gaze, shifting uncomfortably under your silent scrutiny.

"Let's get started," you said, your voice calm but unyielding as you set the pen down, giving each person a measured look. "I need the details on the latest antinarcotic project we're working on."

There was a pause before the head of R&D, Dr. Marcus Lewin cleared his throat. He looked pale, though you couldn't tell if it was the lighting or nerves. "Ah... of course, Miss Aventis," he began, shuffling some papers before him. "We're in the third phase of clinical trials now. The formula has shown promising results, minimal side effects, with a faster recovery rate compared to the last version."

You raised an eyebrow, watching him squirm slightly. "Minimal side effects?" you repeated. "We're aiming for a groundbreaking product, Dr. Lewin. I expect 'minimal' to be an understatement."

"Yes, of course," he stammered, nodding vigorously. "I, uh, apologize. We're working on further improvements. There's also some data regarding efficacy rates in the latest testing group. I can forward the specifics to you."

You leaned forward slightly, your gaze hardening. "Forward them to me? Dr. Lewin, I'd prefer a comprehensive update now from you. Or are there... issues you'd rather not discuss here?"

A few other board members shifted uncomfortably, casting sidelong glances at one another. But Dr. Lewin managed a stiff smile. "No issues, Miss Aventis. We've been gathering the results carefully. We're confident we can meet the expected deadline and provide a full report for you to review."

You nodded slowly, letting the silence stretch. "Good. I expect nothing less. And, just to be clear," you said, glancing around the table at the assembled members, "I don't tolerate surprises. If there are any... discrepancies, now is the time to disclose them. Otherwise, I expect total transparency."

A hush fell over the room.

Your gaze shifted to Martin Hayes, the company's CFO, a man known for his sharp financial acumen and, at times, slippery ethics. He sat across the table, his fingers tapping nervously against his folder. He offered a tight, polite smile as he looked up to meet your eyes.

"And about our deal with that company?" you asked, your voice cool, with just a hint of impatience.

Martin cleared his throat, adjusting his tie. "Yes, of course, Miss Aventis. The partnership with Arcadia Biotech is progressing as planned. We've secured favourable terms for both manufacturing and distribution, ensuring a significant reduction in costs while increasing production capabilities."

You tilted your head, studying him. "And Arcadia is still unaware of our... competitive projects?"

He hesitated, just for a fraction of a second, but you didn't miss it. "They're completely in the dark," he assured quickly. "We've kept all sensitive projects under strict confidentiality clauses. As far as Arcadia is concerned, they're our exclusive partners in the development and distribution of the existing narcotic treatments."

You tapped your fingers against the table. "Good. I'd like a written assurance from you that our proprietary research won't leak. If Arcadia or any other competitor even hints at knowing about our new product, I'll know who to turn to, won't I, Martin?"

The colour drained slightly from his face. "Absolutely, Miss Aventis. You have my word; I'll have our legal team draft an ironclad document."

"See that you do." You leaned back, giving him a faint smile as if to relieve the tension just slightly. "And remember, gentlemen and ladies," you added, letting your gaze roam around the table, "we're here to lead the industry-not to compete in petty games. I expect only the highest standards of loyalty and discretion."

A murmur of agreement filled the room, the board members nodding.

You leaned forward, placing both hands on the table, and fixed each board member with a piercing stare. The boardroom fell silent, the tension thick in the air.

"Also, remember this," you said, your voice low but unwavering. "I am more than capable of running my father's company. Each of you is here because you're shareholders, yes, but let's not mistake that for immunity."

A flicker of uncertainty crossed a few faces, and you didn't miss a beat.

"If I find out that anyone here has tampered with our formulas, compromised our products, or made any attempt to sabotage the reputation of Aventis Pharma..." You let the threat hang in the air for a moment, letting them feel the weight of your words. "Then you'll all be sinking with me. I won't hesitate to bring down every last one of you along with this company if it comes to that."

Martin Hayes shifted uncomfortably, his collar suddenly seeming a little too tight. Dr. Lewin was looking down at his notes, his jaw clenched, while a few others exchanged uneasy glances.

"Now," you continued, sitting back but keeping your gaze sharp, "let's ensure that it never comes to that. We are all on the same side, or we should be. Our success is your success. I expect complete loyalty to the vision my father built and entrusted me to lead."

You let the silence settle, watching them absorb your message. Finally, you smiled, but it was a smile of steel. "Any questions?"

No one spoke up, and you nodded in satisfaction. The boardroom felt smaller, suddenly less crowded with ambition and more attuned to your authority.

The boardroom cleared, and with a curt nod, you dismissed the meeting. Rising from your seat, you walked out with purposeful strides, your five bodyguards falling in line behind you, each scanning the area, their presence, an unspoken wall of security. You exited the building and moved toward the parking lot, where the air was still and quiet, almost eerily so.

Your eyes drifted to a Hummer parked discreetly in the far corner. It felt out of place, like a shadow that didn't belong. You slipped into your sleek sports car, the engine purring to life, but an uneasy feeling gnawed at you. Suddenly, figures emerged from the darkness, men with sharp eyes and cold expressions, each one wielding M14 rifles. Diego Garcia's assassins. The Hummer door stayed shut, but you caught a glimpse of Garcia himself watching from within, his gaze locked on you.

Before you could react, a hail of bullets erupted. Your heart thundered as your bodyguards sprang into action, returning fire, but the assassins moved with ruthless precision. In moments, one by one, your guards went down, each man fighting until his last breath but hopelessly outnumbered. You watched in horror, paralyzed as they fell, each life extinguished in seconds. You barely registered your own scream, choked by terror and fury, as the sounds of gunfire faded, leaving only silence and blood.

Your hands fumbled, trying to unlock the doors, but they were stuck, trapping you in the vehicle like a helpless bystander in a nightmare. You felt your pulse race as the shadows closed in, and then Diego was there, standing right outside your window, his face illuminated in the dim parking lot light. He smiled, a dark, twisted smile that sent chills through you.

"Mine," he whispered through the glass, his voice laced with malice and satisfaction.

A wave of dizziness overtook you, and everything spun. His words echoed in your mind as your vision blurred. Helpless and horrified, you slipped into unconsciousness, the last image seared into your memory: Diego's face, and that sinister smile that promised nothing but darkness.

A week had passed since the attack, but the memory of it still haunted you, flickering at the edge of your thoughts as you sat on the plush velvet sofa in your expansive drawing room. Sunlight poured through the towering windows, casting a warm glow over the gleaming marble floors and the breathtaking view of the Los Angeles skyline stretched beyond, grounding you in the opulence of your mansion. The faint hum of a helicopter faded as it settled on the rooftop, carrying with it your new bodyguard: Lieutenant Simon "Ghost" Riley, a man whose reputation preceded him.

The sound of heavy boots echoed through the hallways, each step precise and deliberate, growing closer until the double doors swung open. You rose from the sofa, instinctively straightening your posture as the figure of Ghost entered the room, his presence consuming it instantly. He was massive, towering over you at 6'4", his muscular frame stretching the fabric of his black t-shirt, every inch of him exuding strength and danger. His broad chest and shoulders were carved with the kind of power that comes only from a life on the battlefield, and his thick, muscular thighs tested the seams of his black cargo pants. A holstered firearm rested against his leg, a stark reminder of the deadly world you were stepping into.

But it was his eyes that struck you the hardest. Deep brown and unwavering, they locked onto yours with an intensity that felt almost physical, as if they could see straight through every secret you held. A skull-patterned bandana covered most of his face, concealing his expression, but his gaze was enough, it was fierce, calculating, and unyielding. His buzz-cut hair, a dirty blonde, caught a hint of sunlight, and a jagged scar traced down his left temple, the brutal souvenir of battles fought and survived.

The contrast between the two of you felt almost surreal, his raw, masculine power against your delicate, fragile beauty. At just five feet tall, your frame seemed almost dainty by comparison, a striking contrast of elegance and strength. The soft material of your dress hugged your figure, emphasizing the curve of your waist and your petite, curvy form, while your brown, doe-like eyes met his with a mixture of curiosity and caution.

"This is Ghost, ma'am," he nodded, his voice low, gravelly, resonant. The sound of it sent a shiver down your spine, filling the room as thoroughly as his presence did.

You hesitated, caught off guard by his intensity, before extending your hand. "Lieutenant Riley," you greeted, your voice steady even as you took in every detail of the man before you. "I've heard a lot about you."

He accepted your hand, his grip firm and respectful, but his eyes stayed sharp and assessing, as if already calculating every risk, every angle of protection.

"Welcome to my mansion. How was your journey?" you asked, settling yourself elegantly on the velvet couch, your posture flawless.

"The journey was fine, ma'am," he replied, his deep voice rumbling through the room. He took a step closer, crossing his arms, his gaze intense and assessing. "The view from the landing pad is quite something, too."

You felt his eyes linger, moving over you, taking in the details of your petite frame and the way your bodycon dress clung to your curves. He tried to keep his focus professional, but it was hard not to notice the finer details.

"Tea, coffee, or whiskey?" you offered.

A faint smirk tugged at the corner of his mouth. "Whiskey," he replied without hesitation, his gaze still fixed on you.

With a small nod, you rose from the sofa and moved to the bar across the room, reaching for the bottle of Kentucky bourbon. His eyes tracked your every movement, lingering on the bare skin between the thin straps of your dress. The dress hugged your form perfectly, and though he kept his face stoic, his attention remained unwavering as you poured the amber liquid into a glass.

You turned, holding the glass in your hand, and extended it to him. He stepped forward, his calloused fingers wrapping around the glass, brushing lightly against yours. The brief contact sent a jolt up your arm, but his face revealed nothing, not a hint of reaction. He lifted the glass to his lips, taking a slow, measured sip, all the while keeping his gaze steady on you.

You leaned back onto the plush sofa, crossing your legs elegantly, watching as he brought the glass of bourbon to his lips, taking a slow sip without breaking eye contact. The slight tension in the room was palpable, each of you sizing up the other, feeling out the boundaries of this unfamiliar relationship.

"So," you murmured, a faint hint of curiosity in your tone, "you wear the skull mask, Ghost..."

His eyes narrowed slightly above the edge of his mask, a flicker of irritation passing through them. He lowered the glass, studying you in silence for a moment before he replied, his tone even. "It's part of the job," he said. "Helps me keep things... impersonal. No one gets to see my face."

You tilted your head, not breaking his gaze. "Not even me?" you asked softly, a subtle challenge in your voice. "Not even the person you're here to protect?"

There was a beat of silence, his eyes dark and unreadable behind the mask. For a moment, you thought he might look away or ignore the question altogether. But then he spoke, his tone a shade more guarded. "Protection is about distance, ma'am. Masks help with that. It's not personal, just how I keep a clear line between my duty and... everything else."

You took a slow breath, absorbing his words. "Clear lines, huh?" You leaned forward, resting your chin on your hand as you studied him, his formidable frame, his stoic face, the shadows that clung to him. "Is that what works best for you, Lieutenant? No attachments, no faces, just the mission?"

He held your gaze, unflinching. "It's what's kept me alive." His answer was calm, unwavering, as though he'd thought it through many times before.

You nodded, acknowledging the harsh reality he lived by. "Well, I suppose I can respect that," you replied, your voice soft but thoughtful. "But you should know, Ghost, this won't be a typical mission. There are things at play here that... don't fit within clear lines."

He didn't respond, but his intense gaze on you seemed to deepen, like he was silently bracing himself for the unknown. Finally, he gave a slight nod, the barest hint of understanding in his eyes.

"Understood," he said, his tone low and resolute. And in that moment, you realized that, for all the distance he wanted to maintain, his presence, steady and unyielding, was exactly what you needed.

"Diego Garcia," you said, your voice quiet but resolute. "The Santiago Cartel."

Ghost's expression darkened. The name carried weight, a reputation steeped in violence. "Diego Garcia," he repeated, his tone grim. "Powerful, ruthless, no ordinary drug lord."

"He's bigger than Valeria Garza. More dangerous than El Sin Nombre."

Ghost's gaze was sharp, intense. "I know. Santiago Cartel is one of the deadliest in Mexico, and Garcia's the head of the snake."

"He's after me," you admitted, feeling the weight of the words as they left your lips.

Ghost's eyes narrowed. "Why?"

"My company produces anti-narcotics," you explained. "We sell the cure. He sells the poison."

Recognition flickered in his eyes. "You're cutting into his profits," he said, understanding dawning. "You make him look weak."

"We're about to launch a new antidote," you continued. "One that blocks the effects of drugs like cocaine, fentanyl. It's still in testing, but it'll be on the market soon."

He nodded slowly, processing it. "The cartel won't let that happen. They'll do whatever it takes to stop you."

You felt a shiver at his words but pushed on. "He's already killed for it. My bodyguards... I watched them die, right in front of me."

A muscle tightened in Ghost's jaw. "He killed them in front of you," he said, his voice low, edged with anger. "Bastard doesn't play by any rules."

"He sent his men. They were armed with M14 rifles. My men didn't stand a chance."

His expression grew grim. "M14s. No wonder your guards didn't make it."

"Laswell suggested you," you continued, watching him closely. "She said if anyone could handle Garcia, it'd be you."

He met your gaze, a flicker of confidence in his eyes. "She's not wrong. I've dealt with men like him before." His voice was calm, unshaken. "And I'll take him down.

"Let me show you around," you said, motioning for him to follow.

Ghost nodded. "Lead the way."

The mansion was sleek and modern, blending luxury with privacy. As you walked through the marble driveway, you passed the tall, solid wooden door into the living room, its polished granite floors gleaming in the light. To the left, a door opened to the swimming pool area, surrounded by greenery. Above, a glass skywalk connected the house, offering a view of the water below.

A spiral staircase led to the second floor where your master bedroom and its luxurious bathroom were located, complete with a Jacuzzi and a high-tech shower. The back lawn opened up to the underground parking area.

As you walked, Ghost took in everything with a sharp, calculating gaze. The mansion wasn't just a home, it was a fortress. Every detail, from the barbed wire to the strategic location, was a reminder of the protection it offered.

"Like what you see?" you asked, watching his reaction.

Ghost's expression was unreadable, but his voice was steady. "It's secure," he said, eyes flicking over the property. "More than most would need."

"It's still smaller than other mansions here," you countered.

"Smaller, yes. But more secure," he said. "Most billionaires settle for an alarm system. You went further."

"The reason I don't go bigger is security," you replied. "I know Diego could breach it, but it's L.A. He'd think twice."

Ghost nodded. "Smart. L.A.'s dangerous, but Garcia would hesitate."

"Good. Let him be intimidated. Makes my job easier."

He shifted his attention back to you. "What about inside? Armed guards?"

"Outside," you said. "The perimeter's covered."

He raised an eyebrow. "Inside?"

"You..." you trailed off, letting him fill in the rest.

Part 2

Part 3

Pic credit: VhenanVirabelasan

https://www.instagram.com/vhenan_virabelasan?igsh=MWpmdnVzaXN5czYyZg==

[vasiliquemort]

Startle for emergency!

I am so unspeakably distraught to conclude this kind of post, yet any help could be absolutely enormous in forthcoming day.

Last year my family moved away air raid's proximity and we were heavily self-reliant from that moment in terms of infrastructure, which was heavily damaged in our area - it is a complex and expressively exhausting position at the moment, we cannot relocate forward but we learned how to force way through this kind of situation.

Yet couple of days we got cut from electricity fully in absolutely sudden motion - both our solar panel (new controller required must arrive here in a lesser part of week, I hope deeply, then we'll must replace it and hove lesser part of our electricity restored possibly) and generator (in cold weather it overloaded during starting water and now requires terminal assertion to be able to provide us *anything*, which either may take unsure amount of time to find solution on our own or enormous by today cost for getting fixed professionally out in the city) are in matter of day turned out of work and it is sole question of time until we'll be majorly cut out by complete loss of charging possible.

Winter's costs of living were atrocious and I am distraught how to properly move forward and be able to provide us what we need (without waterpump our current savings are now settled away to costs of drinking water, with technical being further extracted from snow, and left amounts to be saved for further sustaining in worse case of scenario) and stay safe in case of emergency when we'll have to relocate (I'm physically sick and distraught from thought of again trying and finding refuge and comfort somewhere - things locally are not well and won't be better in a long time), situation might either improve closely in time or not, either way requiring enormous labour and exhaustion of resources.

I feel atrocious for asking - yet, I adjure and ask yourself to help, in any way that is safe and adequate and could be asked for - absolutely any solution would be *enormous* in the face of current situation (30 dollars in total could potentially advance finding professional solution to generator and possibly cover it's budgeting in service, as much as that!), I would be thankful and relieved into tears - my asking for aid comes solely from distraught exhaustion and anxiety of forthcoming winter days.

I ask you to possibly consider concluding *any* (and *any* help would be gargantuan!) aid through either PayPal (HoneyVasilia@gmail.com is both my personal email and one linked to PayPal's account) or, possibly, ko-fi (ko-fi.com/vasiliquemort, yet I am not assured if it fully viable for transactions - at least never had them concluded there previously) - for every solution I kiss your gentle hand and would thank enormously!

I hope it wasn't ugly of a calling - by either possible solution, I'll work for further advances untill failing, and by either of it - I wish every person warmest days of oncoming, most pleasant of evenings, and full times of comfort and safety!<з

[officialah]

Achievement Hunter is changing and we're taking you with us

As you may have noticed, Achievement Hunter has gone through a number of changes this year. We’ve grown a bit smaller as our cast has moved on to work on exciting new ventures, including Inside Gaming and VTubing. Today, we are pleased to announce the launch of Dogbark, a new content group featuring Michael Jones, Alfredo Diaz, Trevor Collins, and Joe Lee. 

Rooster Teeth is at its best when employees have been given the opportunity to pursue new creative passions. Fifteen years ago, this meant giving Geoff the ability to create Achievement Hunter. And today, this means letting the Achievement Hunter cast move on to new creative projects.

Over the last few years, this has allowed our cast to put time into creating F**kface, ANMA, Red Web, Face Jam, and more. More recently, Jack and BK have put their efforts into streaming at Inside Gaming, Lindsay has begun exploring Vtubing as Ruby, and Ky is producing multiple projects, including some of those listed above.

With all of our new focuses, this means we will not be actively creating content for the Achievement Hunter channel. Let’s Play will also look a little bit different moving forward, but we can assure you that it’s not going anywhere, and it’s in great hands.

But why Dogbark, and not just new shows under the Achievement Hunter banner? At this point in our creative careers, we have grown as both people and as entertainers. Much like how early Achievement Hunter evolved from video game guides to Let’s Plays, we’re looking to take Dogbark in a bold new direction that is more heavily focused on improv and sketch comedy. It’s new. It’s fun. It’s weird. And it’s such a departure from what Achievement Hunter has been that we feel Dogbark is truly its own thing.

We’re very excited to share these projects with all of you, and we really do hope you’ll enjoy all the new content we have in store. Through the years, we’ve reached heights we never thought possible–from Haunter to the Hardcore series, from RTX Panels to AH Live Tours. Whether you joined us back in 2008 or 2023, we couldn’t have done this without you. We have been met with so much support as we’ve grown and changed over the years, and we can’t thank you enough for that.

We know this news might be shocking and saddening for you. It’s bittersweet. On one hand, we’re saying “See you later” to a truly indescribable brand. On the other, we’re getting to pursue new passions, explore, test ourselves as creators, and that’s an incredibly exciting experience. It’s hard to do the same thing for our whole lives, and we shouldn’t have to. But, just because we’re not a part of AH anymore doesn’t mean that we didn’t appreciate the time spent there, or with you.

It’s okay to be sad; it’s okay to take time to process. After, when you’re ready, come join us over at Inside Gaming, F**kface, RWBY’s Twitch, Dogbark, Red Web, Face Jam, ANMA, and So…Alright. We’ll be waiting for you.

Love, 

-AH

To watch our full video on this, check out this link: https://youtu.be/YVgACDwlgq0 To learn more about our future projects, check out the links below. 

Dogbark - www.youtube.com/@dogbarkshow || /www.instagram.com/dogbarkshow/

F**kface - www.youtube.com/@fckfacepod || twitter.com/FuckFacePod

Inside Gaming -www.twitch.tv/roosterteeth || www.youtube.com/@insidegaming

RWBY Twitch - www.twitch.tv/rwby_vt

We’ve anticipated your questions and have created an FAQ below that will hopefully provide answers.

Where are [insert the AH person you are looking for] going?

Honestly, nowhere. They’re still here at Rooster Teeth, but are jumping into new exciting opportunities that bring them joy and passion.Geoff and Gavin are focusing on F**kface, Jack and BK are streaming over with Inside Gaming, Lindsay is launching a RWBY Vtubing Twitch, and Ky is producing these projects. Michael, Trevor, Alfredo, and Joe are excited to announce their new project, Dogbark, which launches 10/2.

Does this mean AH content is going away?

Nope. It’ll exist in perpetuity online. Both on Rooster Teeth Site and Apps as well as the AH YouTube channel.

Will AH ever return?

Think of it like your favorite band going on hiatus. We don’t want to close the door completely and turn off all the lights. There’s always the chance that One Direction will come back.

Is Let’s Play content and channel going away?

Also nope! But stay tuned, you might recognize who will start showing up (and reshowing up) there.

[bengiyo]

Twilight Out of Focus Ep 3 Stray Thoughts

Last week, we got the traumatic backstory for Hisashi as he broke up with his old homeroom teacher. While tending to Hisashi's wound, Mao admitted that he likes him, and the two almost got intimate. Mao ran away, confusing Hisashi, and causing him to mess up on set. Mao has assured Hisashi that they'll talk after they finish shooting the film. I'm obsessed with the complex layers of sexuality in this show.

Interesting. Now Hisashi is the one dialed in and Mao is the one who is distracted.

I continue to love the blending of manga panel styles in this show.

Absolutely thrilled that they're highlighting how awkward and uncomfortable it is to kiss on screen, and how the real kiss they had last week feels different.

Damn. Film sets are like construction sites. There are trip hazards everywhere. Not a place to be losing your focus because you got jealous.

Oh fuck yeah! We're bringing back the truth telling on camera. I love that it worked instantly.

The kisses in this show feel so natural and earned.

I am losing it over them narrowing the screen during the sex.

Losing it over this show owning that there's a learning curve to some aspects of gay sex.

Finally, we have a bottom describing how they felt.

AFTERCARE! PILLOW TALK!

What is this sad as fuck BL they're making?

A second round of just handies? THIS IS A GAYS ONLY EVENT. GO HOME!!

I really hope this film doesn't get leaked or stolen. I will be furious.

This show is actually so romantic about filmmaking and I'm enamored.

Holy shit that final scene was so good.

I keep saying this, but the best shows this year are some of the best we've ever had. I absolutely love that the episode about filming the first kiss of the BL characters led to the first sex and full confession of the real guys in our show (who are also fictional, obviously), and that they do used in the physical and emotional realities of gay sex. We had an open admission that part of it might create discomfort, we had Mao learning to enjoy being with another man, and we had pillow talk and after care. I love that we went into that scene with Hisashi asking if it was okay when he asked Mao to tell the truth to the camera, and before they had sex both times. I love as well that Mao filmed them together in the morning. He says he can't lie to a camera, so it affirms even more the truth of his feelings. I love that the discovery happening between them is making them see their own lives differently, and improving their work. Finally, I also love that Mao knows this isn't the end of their story. Their lives aren't static. They had sex and confessed that they like each other a lot, and they are going to face the changes that come. This show is so, so special.

[beesmygod]

"A GHOST STORY" IS A WEBCOMIC I MAKE THAT I WILL BE RE-POSTING, GRADUALLY.

the top row is from 2013, the bottom row is from the 2018 re-draw. the second row was made in 2019. this was another page where the original had too much information on it and it had to be split into two pages.

we finally hit a page i can look at and go "yeah i was cooking when i re-did this". it is vastly improved over the original in all ways. the art is still rudimentary and does not do anything exciting or unexpected, but the writing is far better and way more "human" than it was previously. the re-draw/re-write successfully conveys a conversation between these two characters as i know them today. maxine is stubborn and self-assured even when she's going to die. jack is passive to the point of being unhelpful and cowardly, even when he's going to die. they are both so stupid.

i miss writing them in the same room together. it's been so long. but it's for plot reasons. they will re-united and be dumber than ever. anyway, this is the stuff i feel more confident about presenting to people as "my work". it's still deeply imperfect and awkward but in ways that feel unique to me as a result of trying really hard to make something good. it sucks, but sucks in a way that i have been cultivating and fine-tuning over the course of several years. it demonstrates improvement, and goddamn if that isn't all i want more than anything else.

in the original page, jack and maxine have a panel where they're doing different poses that pants does in the webcomic "jerkcity" (now called some other shit i don't remember or care to look up. rands you're a bitch dude), which is made in the software "microsoft comic chat", which uses illustrations provided by comic artist jim woodring.

---

♥ read the comic: A Ghost Story ♥ support the comic for as little as $1 a month on Patreon ♥ donate on kofi ♥ pay what you want for the re-draw of the first chapter on itch.io

you can block the tag "#AGS repost" to keep this off your dash

[ausetkmt]

Expanding the framework for reparations to include present and future compensation for the disproportionate effects of the climate crisis on Black people is an idea gaining in popularity among climate justice advocates. 

No estimates have been proposed for climate reparations in the U.S., but in 2023, researchers calculated a global projection of $192 trillion owed by wealthy nations to poor ones—with the U.S. as the major emitter of greenhouse gases responsible for $80 trillion.

Asked at a congressional hearing whether the U.S. would ever contribute to global climate reparations, Climate Envoy John Kerry said “No, not under any circumstances!”

In his testimony, he jokingly added the exclamation point. 

Tragically, there’s nothing funny about climate reparations either in the U.S. or abroad. Here’s why. 

What are global climate reparations?

University of Hawaii law professor Maxine Burkett coined the term climate reparations in a 2009 landmark law review. By it, she is referring to the moral obligation of industrialized countries to finance the reconstruction of towns and cities after climatic events in the Global South and to pay for future climate mitigation and adaptation. 

She points out that rich countries, which pollute the global atmospheric commons with carbon emissions to grow their economies, “disproportionately and unfairly” harm the climate vulnerable in Global South countries. They should pay them to address grievances—both in the present and the future.

Burkett writes: “I use reparations to describe a process, instigated and propelled by the moral challenge of a massive wrong, to construct methods to

improve the lives of current victims into the future. Climate reparations is the effort to assess the harm caused by the past emissions of the major polluters and to improve the lives of the climate-vulnerable through direct programs, policies and/or mechanisms for significant resource transfers, to assure the ability of the climate-vulnerable to contemplate a better livelihood in light of future climate challenges.”  

Since many of the poor countries Burkett has in mind are (or were) colonies of the rich perpetrators of these climate injustices, the idea of climate colonialism helps bring into focus the imperialist roots of the problem. 

From this point, it’s easy to see how slavery also is intertwined with climate injustice, and, more broadly, environmental racism in the United States. Black people living in colonial America were treated first as indentured servants by their masters before slavery became customary. So, calls for climate reparations to be made to Black individuals and to Black communities in the U.S. are justified, based on the same reasoning Burkett advanced for global BIPOC.

The need for climate reparations in the U.S.

Demands by climate justice groups for climate reparations in the U.S. intensified when the Sixth Assessment Report (AR6) of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) acknowledged for the first time in 2022 that colonialism was a driving force of human-caused climate change. 

AR6 states: “Vulnerability of ecosystems and people to climate change differs substantially among and within regions (very high confidence), driven by patterns of intersecting socioeconomic development, unsustainable ocean and land use, inequity, marginalization, historical and ongoing patterns of inequity such as colonialism, and governance (high confidence).” 

In previous articles, such as on climate gentrification in Charleston, South Carolina, and on environmental racism in Los Angeles and Louisiana, the current and future climate harms disproportionately felt by Black people are glaringly evident. Climate reparations in the U.S. are desperately needed to compensate for these and similar climate harms endured by Black people in recent decades and are predicted to intensify in the future.

Climate impacts on Black people in the U.S.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) detailed six climate impacts on Black people and other marginalized groups in a 2021 report. These are:

Air pollution and health. Higher asthma rates

Extreme temperature and health. Premature death

Extreme temperature and labor. Lost work hours

Coastal flooding and traffic. Traffic delays 

Coastal flooding and property. Inundation from rising sea levels

Inland flooding and property. Property damage and loss

The report included these statistics on how bad the climate crisis affects Black people:

Black people are 40% more likely than whites to reside in neighborhoods with the highest projected increases in premature death due to extreme temperatures. 

Black people are 34% more likely than whites to live in areas with the greatest estimated rates of childhood asthma due to particulate air pollution (from fossil fuel power plants).

Here are other statistics compiled by the NAACP:

More than one million Black people live within a half-mile of methane (fracked) gas facilities.

Over 6.7 million Black people reside in the 91 U.S. counties with oil refineries.

One million or more Black people face a cancer risk above EPA’s “level of concern” due to unclean air. They live in what experts refer to as “sacrifice zones.”

Approximately 13.4% of Black children have asthma, compared to only 7.3% of white children.

According to the recent National Climate Assessment, marginalized communities will face more flooding than any other group: “For socially and economically marginalized and low-income groups, climate change and current and future sea level rise could exacerbate many long-standing inequities that precede any climate-related impacts.”

The EPA report acknowledged that the most serious climatic events disproportionately affect marginalized communities who have the fewest resources to prepare for and recover from such incidences. 

When climate catastrophes occur, Black communities receive less help than white communities to rebuild. As a result, Black communities see a decrease in wealth (lowering of property values) while whites benefit from increases.

Proposals for climate reparations by U.S. government 

To address and resolve the climate harms disproportionately affecting Black people both now and in the future, climate reparations are appropriate. Unfortunately, the U.S. government has done little more than offer lip service to this national crisis.

Although both Clinton and Biden Administrations issued executive orders “to focus federal attention on the environmental and human health effects of federal actions on minority and low-income populations with the goal of achieving environmental protection for all communities,” no significant improvements resulted.

Biden’s Justice40 (J40) Initiative designates substantial funds to address climate justice problems, but progress is slow, as discussed in a previous article. Incidentally, race is not given as a criterion for eligibility in over 500 federal programs across 16 agencies.

State programs to address climate-related inequities

Although they are not meant as climate reparations, there are two programs in U.S. states that serve to remedy climate-related problems faced by marginalized communities. 

Racial Equity Impact Statements (REIS)

Chicago’s Department of Housing views its work to create affordable and safe housing through a racial equity lens. Since 2021, they issue Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC) to developers as incentives to the private sector to

create affordable rental housing. Their Qualified Allocation Plan (QAP) is a streamlined set of instructions to guide LIHTC developers through the process.

Whole-Home Repairs Program (WHRP)

Pennsylvania’s Department of Community & Economic Development administers WHRP. This program grants funding for county agencies to enhance the habitability and safety of buildings for low-income homeowners and for landlords renting affordable units. Funding for improvements for energy or water efficiency is also available. Additionally, WHRP allocates funding to counties for construction-related workforce development.

Federal officials could develop programs like these specifically for Black communities, adding urban green spaces, raising and enforcing clean air and water standards, and upgrading local infrastructure. Such programs would represent the first meaningful steps toward instituting climate reparations in the U.S.

[pleasantspark]

Premature (Oneshot) King Cold x Female Frieza Race! OC (Frigid Cold) + Frieza + Cooler Genre: Tragedy & Hurt/Comfort Tropes: Warnings: King Cold being a good father, Frieza is born premature, Mama Cold is currently traumatized, Frieza's Birth did a number on Mama Cold, Cooler being neglected (In his eyes.), Angst AUs Utilized: Overhaul AU A/n: I decided to write some angst about King Cold and Mama Cold. Let me know if you want a part two. I wrote this to warm up lmfaooo. King Cold POV

"...He's kicking." Is what Frigid told me, it's been nearly 5 months since we found out she was incubating with our second child, my eyes dart over to her, she was hunched over the soft sofa with her hand above her incubation chamber. I nodded, a curt gesture to tell her I heard her, I was still manning my control panel.

"That's... amazing to hear." I said, I blinked for a bit tending back to my work. I still struggled with the news even after 5 months. I wasn't hoping to have another child. I was content with Cooler. But then things lead down a different path and here I was, being a father to another Icijin.

"Are you not happy?"

I paused at Frigid's words, my fingers hovering over the keys of the control panel. My back was faced away from her. I knew she looked completely crestfallen. I sighed, and retracted my fingers from the keys.

"It's... a complicated feeling, My Dear." I said, "But that doesn't mean I won't accept him or her."

Frigid lets out a sigh. "I know, it's just... It was so soon even after..." Frigid began. I nodded, I was in the midst of securing The Alliance with the Saiyan's but that had to be postponed, caring for a new child comes first.

"Yes, prior commitments have to be assorted and pushed to the side, but there's nothing wrong with that." I reassured her. I placed a hand on her shoulder, she looked beautiful. I never really paid attention to her when she was pregnant with Cooler, mainly because of the Mood Swings and constant cravings deterred me away. I had sent most of my soldiers to deal with her.

"I understand, it must go on after all. But the most problem I am more worried about, is Cooler." Frigid said. I looked towards the glass door, where Cooler was slumped and crossed his arm as the nanny I hired, Berryblue who was scolding Cooler for breaking an important device.

Cooler has been oddly different since the announcement of his new title as "brother" he was always happy about being my only. And while I understand, I always told him nothing will change between me and him, and by extension his mother. But he didn't listen.

"I understand, Cooler is just a kid, he needs time to adjust. Surely when his little brother comes along, he'll come around." I said, dispelling any worries from Frigid.

"Now, do you want some of that pudding?"

"He's been doing fine." Berryblue commented, when I asked about Cooler's progress.

"That's good." I said, it's been nearly 3 more months since then, and Cooler has been improving his aloof behavior. And even started spending time with his mother again, the noticeable improvement in Cooler's behavior really surprised me.

"Yes, My Lord. How's Frigid?" Berryblue asked me.

"...She's..." I stopped walking momentarily which caused Berryblue to worry.

"Sir?" She began.

"Frigid... Has been having complications with the incubation." I admitted. She hasn't been feeling interactions with Frieza as of late and had even described a bleak description of Frieza becoming an egg in the womb. I couldn't help but feel worried.

"Complications, you don't mean-"

"No, nothing like that, I assure you. Just, Little Frieza is currently in egg form. I don't know how long unt-"

I was about to explain what's wrong with Frigid before my scouter beeps with an important message from the medic that was head of the Maternity Wing I took it.

"You have reached King Cold, please state your business." I said.

"Frigid has went into early, Labor. King Cold, your son might be born premature, please come down here at once." The voice at the other end said.

"I will be there at once." I said, cutting the call, I turned to Berryblue. "You're on babysitting duty. I have an emergency. Make sure Cooler's accounted for." I didn't give Berryblue a time to respond, I flipped my cape and rushed to the medical wing.

The Medical Wing was currently empty as most soldiers don't really go and heal their wounds that often. I went down a corridor where I was met with another Icijin. He's been the families everything when it came to child care and rearing. He was tapping his clipboard and his head lifted up once he heard my arrival. He bowed to me.

"King Cold." He said, I nodded curtly.

"Where is she?" I asked.

"Come here, she's currently healing from the birthing process." The Doctor had me follow him, I was... Anxious and my nerves were all bundled up. I felt like I was going to throw up.

The room was quiet, until I entered. Frigid was in the bed, hooked up to machines. I was worried and walked to her side.

"What happened?" I asked her. Taking a hand in both of my larger hands.

"I don't remember, all I know was, I handed off Cooler to Berryblue after complaining about stomach pains and feeling dizzy. So I thought I needed some rest. And... I woke up to searing pain, tons of it. And I think my water broke? So I called the doctor..." She said, I furrowed my eyes and looked at the floor.

"Is he okay?" I asked.

"Yes, he's just born premature." Frigid answered.

I nodded, and got up, I went to the royal nursery, and in the middle of the room I saw the egg being incubated. I placed my hand on the glass.

"Don't worry, Frieza. You're going to be extraordinary."

[govindhtech]

Samsung Galaxy A56: Best Smartphone Performance In 2025

Samsung Galaxy A56

As development news breaks, the Samsung Galaxy A56 is gaining popularity in the smartphone industry. Designed to succeed the Galaxy A series, this gadget is expected to outperform even Samsung’s top models. Mid-range smartphones will be transformed by the Galaxy A56’s speed, efficiency, and user experience. It is the most anticipated specifications and why it’s worth the wait.

Galaxy A56 Features

New mid-range smartphone standard

The Galaxy A56 continues Samsung’s legacy of quality features at an accessible price. Samsung looks to be pushing the limits even further, providing the A56 with high-performance specs that might compete with flagship handsets.

Strong Processor Upgrade

Due to its speculated Exynos 1480 processor, the A56 outperforms its predecessor, the Exynos 1280 in the A54. The new Exynos 1480 improves multitasking, processing performance, and power efficiency. It is octa-core CPU handles intense operations smoothly, so you can stream, game, or manage many apps.

Samsung may possibly provide a��Snapdragon 7 Gen 2 model for adaptable usage in various areas. With its high performance and power economy, this processor makes the Galaxy A56 a powerful mid-range competitor.

Memory and storage upgrades

Samsung will upgrade RAM and storage with the A56. There are significant reports that the basic model will have 6GB of RAM, although an 8GB edition may be available for intense workloads. Users may choose 128GB or 256GB internal storage, extendable via microSD up to 1TB. Users need flexibility, and this gives programs, images, movies, and files plenty of space.

Huge Speeds

Today’s digital world requires 5G, which the Galaxy A56 provides. The A56 is fantastic for streaming, gaming, and video conferencing due to dual-mode 5G download and upload rates. The A56 will keep people connected at fast speeds worldwide as 5G spreads.

Beautiful AMOLED Display

The Galaxy A56‘s 6.5-inch Full HD+ Super AMOLED display with deep blacks, bright colors, and superb contrast. The A56 will maintain Samsung’s display superiority with its immersive display. A 120Hz refresh rate assures clean images and minimal motion blur, giving the screen a luxury feel normally seen in higher-end devices.

Amazing Camera Setup

Smartphone cameras matter, and the Galaxy A56 may include quad cameras. Speculation implies a 50MP primary sensor, 12MP ultra-wide, 5MP macro, and 5MP depth sensor. This configuration enables for wide-angle vistas and close-ups.

The 50MP main camera offers great low-light performance, quicker focusing, and sharper images. AI advancements provide pro-level photography without a flagship smartphone. Quality selfies and video calls with 32MP camera.

Samsung Galaxy A56 may utilize 5,000mAh battery

Smartphone customers appreciate battery life. Power-efficient Exynos or Snapdragon chipsets and large batteries should last all day for gaming and streaming. The A56 is include 25W rapid charging for quick phone usage. As usual for Samsung’s A-series, this mid-range device won’t include wireless charging.

Android/One UI Integration

As predicted, the Samsung Galaxy A56 will come with Android 14 and One UI 6. With capabilities to boost productivity and customization, Samsung’s One UI is seamless and user-friendly. One-handed mode, Edge Panels, and extensive privacy settings make the A56 a versatile tablet for casual and experienced users.

Samsung Knox, the company’s unique security technology, will provide improved protection to secure your data. With regular software updates and security fixes, the A56 will endure for years.

Smooth Design and Quality

Samsung designs are known for their quality, so the Galaxy A56 should look great. Corning Gorilla Glass 5 front and back makes the phone look fantastic and endure longer. This thin device with curved edges is easy to grasp and will come in numerous colors for design and function.

Keeping its IP67 dust- and water-resistant designation makes the A56 more durable for daily usage in varied conditions.

Samsung Galaxy A56 Price

Final Thoughts: Mid-Range Powerhouse Galaxy A56

The A56 is turning out to be one of the most powerful and adaptable mid-range smartphones with its astonishing variety of high-performance capabilities. Its powerful Exynos 1480 CPU, 120Hz AMOLED display, quad-camera system, 5G connection, and big battery make the Galaxy A56 the right blend of performance, features, and cost.

The A56 is a must-see for anybody searching for flagship-like capabilities at a lower price. Samsung is pushing the limits of mid-range smartphones.

Galaxy A56 Release Date

No Samsung Galaxy A56 release date has been disclosed. Early in the year, Samsung releases its mid-range A series smartphones. Based on prior trends, the Galaxy A56 should be introduced in early 2025.

Read more on Govindhtech.com

[sunskate]

Nyugen/Giang and Veillon/Brandys had by far the biggest jump in international scores of the top 10 - N/G went from a previous seasons best of 144 to 151 here, while V/B went from 139 to 147. Everyone else scored around about what the rankings coming in told us they’d score. Can’t tell if that’s a result of massive improvement since the Grand Prix or if Skate Canada were just totally incompetent in supporting them last year because they’re not anointed teams from Montreal or Scarboro.

first, yay Layla and Alex - 8th at their first junior Worlds with such good skates 😭

the JGPs were so long ago, L/A have improved for sure. they came out and really went after these programs with assurance and deserved their higher marks. the new RD is a major factor - it highlights their skating and their glide more and style wise is in their wheelhouse. most of the jump in points came from the RD: a +5.71 pts gain vs +2.52 for the FD

N/G had a really good competition as well - their jump was big because this was the first international where they put together a clean FD with an RD with max levels - they gained 4.5 pts in the RD with level 4 and 3 patterns here. their FD score was 1.84 pts higher than their JGP Linz score way back in August, so it wasn't a huge leap. they really divided the panel, though- Poland had them 2nd while Korea had them 11th in the FD

a lot of the top 10 teams were at the JGPF, so they had a December score to factor into their int'l rankings, and most of them improved on their JGP scores at the Final, so their trajectory wasn't going to be as steep as teams who hadn't competed internationally since September. all 3 podium teams had mistakes in the FD, so they were poised to score higher here if they'd been clean

Fradji/Forneaux had nearly a 6 pt jump in their int'l score. Tali/LaFornara's relative lack of jump is deceptive because their FD score was a lot lower than their one JGP, but their RD was nearly 10 points higher. Pedersen/Chen had level issues in their RD, though they improved on their FD score. the Peals are the only team that were kind of flat in their scoring. when you go into the details there's a lot in the numbers that don't have to point to politics. i'd be kind of surprised if feds were spending much political capital on juniors

[teamarcstechnologies]

What is the Customer Satisfaction Survey in the World of Business

In today's competitive business landscape, understanding and meeting customer expectations are paramount to success. One of the most effective tools for gauging customer satisfaction and gathering valuable feedback is the Customer Satisfaction Survey (CSS). Let's delve into what CSS entails and why it's essential in the world of business.

What is a Customer Satisfaction Survey?

A Customer Satisfaction Survey is a structured questionnaire designed to gather feedback from customers regarding their experiences with a product, service, or brand. These surveys typically include questions about overall satisfaction, product quality, customer service, pricing, and likelihood of recommendation.

Why are Customer Satisfaction Surveys Important?

Insight into Customer Experience: CSS provides valuable insights into the customer experience, allowing businesses to understand what their customers like and dislike about their products or services.

Identifying Areas for Improvement: By analyzing survey responses, businesses can pinpoint specific areas where they may be falling short and take corrective actions to improve customer satisfaction.

Building Customer Loyalty: Regularly soliciting feedback through CSS demonstrates a commitment to customer satisfaction, which can help build trust and loyalty among customers.

Enhancing Product or Service Quality: Feedback obtained from CSS enables businesses to make informed decisions about product or service improvements, ultimately leading to higher quality offerings.

Competitive Advantage: Businesses that prioritize customer satisfaction gain a competitive edge by differentiating themselves from competitors and attracting more customers through positive word-of-mouth.

Key Components of a Customer Satisfaction Survey:

Clear Objectives: Define the purpose of the survey and what specific information you aim to gather from customers.

Appropriate Timing: Determine the optimal time to administer the survey, such as immediately after a purchase or interaction with your business.

Short and Relevant Questions: Keep the survey concise and focus on asking questions that are relevant to the customer's experience.

Multiple Response Options: Provide customers with multiple response options, including rating scales, multiple-choice questions, and open-ended questions to gather qualitative feedback.

Anonymity and Confidentiality: Assure customers that their responses will remain anonymous and confidential to encourage honest feedback.

Follow-Up Action Plan: Have a plan in place to analyze survey results and implement changes based on the feedback received.

Conclusion:

Customer Satisfaction Surveys play a crucial role in helping businesses understand customer needs, improve satisfaction levels, and drive business growth. By actively listening to customer feedback and taking proactive measures to address concerns, businesses can foster long-term relationships with their customers and stay ahead in today's competitive marketplace. Implementing a well-designed CSS strategy can lead to happier customers, increased loyalty, and ultimately, greater business success.

To know more: Online Community Management Software

panel management platform

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[insidecroydon]

Perry ducks scrutiny over council financials that don't add up

CROYDON IN CRISIS: Elected Mayor didn’t hang around to face the music from councillors as the £42m overspend was discussed at the Town Hall this week. By STEVEN DOWNES In the hot seats: Cllr Jason Cummings alongside council director Jane West, explaining to the scrutiny committee how very bad things have become The council’s projected £42million overspend this financial year is “unprecedented”,…

[aonoexpat]

10-01-2024

Happy new year everybody! And as the previous submissions highlighted (thankss friends ❤️), yes, it's been a while, and I do apologise for the radio silence. My mental health has been a bit of a rollercoaster the past month and a half, and I've had to prioritise other things. But I'm not about to let the daunting task of summarising 6 weeks in 1 post discourage me! Let's go.

The talks of politics and philosophy at home have continued, occasionally with extra participants. They sent me down a pretty depressing and nihilistic spiral for a little while, but I feel like I've really managed to climb my way out of that again. I was finally brought to a bit of an epiphany that's made me able to at least pick myself up by my bootstraps, and though I'm currently not very comfortable in any hard political or philosophical positions, I seem to have a bit more grip on a general framework again. And that helped me stop moping around and start enjoying my time here more again. Though I'm still quite fragile mentally and quickly overwhelmed, sometimes to extremes that I haven't experienced in years, all in all I feel like this has been an incredibly humbling experience that has helped me grow tremendously. Who knew the last leg of my journey would be one of this kind? I spent four months exploring the South island, and now I've spent the next two exploring my own mind. Though I think that's a journey that will never truly be over, which is both exciting and terrifying.

I have been extremely lucky to be able to live this last bit of my journey rent-free, thanks to my wonderful housemates (and their adorable little dog):

Which meant that I could get away with only working part time. I still thoroughly enjoy my job and my coworkers (we love singing along at the top of our lungs to broadway songs as we clean up after close), but it's great to have a lot of free time around work to meet up with old friends and eat sushi or go to the beach...

...Play board games...

...Celebrate Sinterklaas...

...Organise all my marked road maps, give myself manicures and haircuts, and, with deep deep pain in my heart: sell Elrond 💔 I will say I was extremely lucky to be able to sell him for DOUBLE what I paid for him back in May 😱 I definitely did improve upon him, with the brand new solar panel, newly constructed bed and shiny new rear brakes. Still, I hadn't expected to get my asking price for him, but I got lucky having two interested buyers who wanted to compete. I can barely believe it, but this means I have almost fully earned back my entire South island trip, car costs and fuel costs combined! And now I don't have to worry about the scenario in which I wouldn't manage to sell him, and would have to leave him with friends. All that was definitely the silver lining I forced myself to focus on as I gave him one last deep clean, both to be able to present him properly to his new owners, and as a sort of closure ritual for myself. I cleaned out all the dead sandflies, dusted all the surfaces, vacuumed the floor mats, and gave the kitchen a thorough wash. Saying goodbye is never easy, and I definitely had to fight back some tears when his new owners came to pick him up and take him away. But they are absolute sweethearts (they already sent me a photo from their adventure with him), so I can rest assured that he is in good hands! Farewell my darling, you were the best first car I could have wished for, and you will not be forgotten ❤️

Aside from all that, I was also very glad to have the chance to go on two more spectacular hikes in this area!

Patuna Chasm

This GORGEous ~3-hour hike definitely justified my bringing my Teva active sandals with me from home, as almost three quarters of the walk was through knee-deep river water. It was a cold and windy morning as we got driven to the start of the track in a 4WD car by the owners of the land, and were told to be back at the drop-off point in three hours to be brought back to our own car. If we were to miss that car, we'd have to wait a full hour for the next ride. So with our route map in hand, we set off on the first leg of the hike, which took us up the hills and back down to the chasm. The views were stunning, with spectacular rock formations and the grass on the hill faces waving in the wind like a green ocean:

Down at the river, we got our clothes and bags ready to get wet, and stepped into the water. As we followed the river, first upstream towards some serene waterfalls (where I may have given myself a brain freeze and mild hypothermia by deciding to stand under them):

And then downstream to start making our way back to the car, it started to slowly rain, but that didn't stop us. We saw eels:

We clambered up muddy hills and over huge boulders, down ladders, through deep and shallow sections of the river, explored caves:

And when we finally got back to the section of the track that would take us to our starting point, two of my friends were kind enough to carry mine and our fourth friend's backpack, so we could go down the alternate route: the last stretch of the river, which required us to swim through neck-deep water. I couldn't feel my feet or forearms by the end, but the adrenaline drowned that out as we sprinted up the riverbank to make it back to the 4WD car, only to catch it right as it was about to leave without us! It was absolutely exhausting, but so much good old childish adventurous fun, and one of the most spectacular hikes I've done in the country! (Photo credits to Liv :) )

Escarpment Track

This was the last hike my friend and I did together, which was a sad fact I tried not to think about too much as we walked. The track took us about 10km along the East coast, and it was quite the climb. The view was stunning though, the path itself was very well laid out, with stairs and ropes to hold onto, and benches along the way, which we happily used to take a lunch break about halfway through.

We were very happy to have some cloud coverage that day so we weren't constantly exposed to the sun. My favourite parts were the two rope bridges that were bouncing wildly in the wind. Standing on them felt a little like flying!

And for most of the track we were flanked by immense amounts of fennel, which gave the whole walk a wonderful background aroma:

I was so amazed by the thought that this hike was literally 15 minutes from my friend's home. That type of easy access to incredible nature is definitely something I'm going to miss when I go home. But that made me all the more grateful I got to do this while I still could! (Photo credits to Liv :) )

Soon enough my birthday rolled around, which was an incredibly emotional day for me. I had to say goodbye to my dear friends, one of whom I won't see again before I leave the country. I gifted her a little hand made photo album of our adventures together, which had taken me a lot longer to make than I had anticipated, but luckily I had managed to finish it the night before:

She told me this wasn't a 'goodbye', but a 'see you next time', and though I'd happily believe that, the next time will be at least a long time from now. She has meant the world to me during this trip, has helped and supported me more than I could thank her for, so I had to bite back tears as I watched her walk away. After that I had drinks at work, where my super kind coworkers surprised me with vegan chocolate and doughnuts, making me struggle not to cry for the second time that day. In the evening I had a video call with home, during which I remotely participated in their game of Memory, and still WON 💪😤

After my birthday my housemates and I went straight into Christmas mode, running around decorating the house and cooking all sorts of dishes! It was very odd to have Christmas without the associated weather/season, and without getting to see my family. My housemate introduced me to Tim Minchin's song White Wine in the Sun, which makes me cry like a baby every time I listen to it. So I took a photo of myself and my housemates, drinking non-alcoholic sparkling white grape juice in the sun, and sent it home along with a link to the song to make my parents cry as well 😈 We spent our days here enjoying all the wonderful food and the company of the neighbour and his family, and I even got to sing some songs which I hadn't done in a long while. I also got to give Christmas presents to my housemates, which I worked quite hard on: matching cowl scarves for the two of them and the dog 😊

Of course next on the calendar was New Year's Eve. In honour of my family traditions, I got some non-alcoholic sparkling rose and cocktail fruit from the supermarket, and a couple of minutes before midnight a musician friend and I combined them into portable cups, so we could cheers to 2024 at the waterfront as the fireworks lit up the sky!

I had a wonderful night of music, dancing, playing on the beach, walking in the woods, and eventually sheltering from the rain, and didn't fall asleep until 6 in the morning. My sleeping rhythm still hasn't recovered! The next morning I woke up from my alarm at 11:55, and quickly got up so I could listen to the last minutes of the Top2000 and wish all my Dutch people a happy new year at noon. It felt so odd to do this in the sun in the middle of the day, but in a way that felt more real than the midnight before!

The next days I spent some time looking back at my highlights and achievements from 2023, and I created my own makeshift "Spotify wrapped" by analysing some statistics from my offline music player app. It turns out that (besides Asha, which is the music I play to fall asleep nearly every night) Ghost was my top artist of the year 🎧 Oh and I caught a big spider in my room!

For Sinterklaas, my parents had gifted me a metaphorical voucher to spend where I wanted to, so I got myself a ticket to a tour at Wēta Workshop, the SFX and other movie magic studio behind the Lord of the Rings trilogy, the Avatar movies, and many more. I dragged one of my housemates and a mutual friend along, and I'm really happy we got to go! We were shown around the different stages in the SFX process, we got to hold some movie prop swords, and got to see the original weapons and armour used on-screen in a plethora of different movies. Unfortunately for copyright reasons we weren't allowed to take photos inside the studios and work stations, but I snapped some photos outside!

And while I'd much prefer not to face it... By now I have had to start focusing on my upcoming homebound trip. Slowly plans for when I get back home are trickling in, which feels very surreal. I can't believe it's actually only two weeks until I go home, a fact that I like to hide from as much as I can. It's not that I don't want to go home, I've been looking forward to seeing my family again, eating all my familiar foods, seeing my neighbourhood and getting to hug my friends again for so long now. And I am genuinely excited for that. Part of the reason I enjoy traveling is that it reminds me of what I love about home, and allows me to miss it, and return to it more grateful than before. But it also feels like returning to 'normal life'. I'm afraid of going from a time of adventure to a time of stagnation, even though I know that's not a fair or reasonable thought. I suppose something I was afraid of is happening, which is that I feel at home here now, and happy, and have found the right people, and am enjoying the summer, and so going home (to winter 🥶) actually doesn't sound very attractive at all at times, at least not the way it did when I was living in Elrond. Back then I was struggling a lot more, I felt alone and lost, and so the thought of going home felt like such a relief. Now that I've grown accustomed to the luxury of living in a house again, and being surrounded by a social network I feel safe and appreciated in... the contrast is a lot smaller. And it almost feels like I'm going to feel homesick towards here when I go home. Like this upcoming flight is my departure, not my return.

This thought was solidified even more when my housemate asked if I'd be willing to wear a sweater that I'm not going to take with me as much as I can for the last two days or so, so that it will smell like me and I can leave it for the dog 😭💔 I really struggle not to cry at that thought, and I'm wondering if maybe (i.e. am pretty sure actually that) I'm even procrastinating with booking the trip between here and Tāmakimakaurau out of pure denial. I don't want to leave. I don't want to say goodbye, and never come back. Much more than I ever felt with Australia, I want to return here. I don't care when, maybe that will be when I'm old and retired and have no family left in Europe to miss, or when the most important people to me come with me, or if I find out I have been irrevocably changed and flee back here in a year or two. But I want to come back.

I have procured a second suitcase, and am slowly working on getting all my possessions sorted. I've sold my busking amp and microphones to a good musician friend after we'd used it for a last busking hurrah at the harbourside veggie markets last Sunday. It was a fantastic end to this busking season for me, as we connected with the crowd, the weather was wonderful, and I got to sing all the songs that were important to me. I can't bring my guitar with me, so I'll bring it to my friends' house for safekeeping, and maybe they can get it back to me some day. And the big pink bear who was riding shotgun with me in Elrond? It would break my heart to leave him behind, so I stuffed him into one of those vacuum seal bags:

And I'm going to break my back trying to fit him into the new suitcase! He means too much to me, even if I only paid $10 for him.

My to do list is shrinking slowly but steadily, and I really have to plan well to fit everything that's left into the little time I still have here. I am going to make the most of it, spend time with the people here that have meant the most to me, immortalise the memories and when the time comes, I will get on that plane with a fond smile ❤️

[fluffs-n-stuffs]

hey! i just wanted to say i really love your comic, i love the way you draw eusine and morty and you write them really well!! i think ur art is just really cool in general honestly, the way you do lineart is so flowy and pretty. i saw things have been a bit rough on you lately, and i just wanted to say i hope things get easier for you soon! i hope ur having a good day

Aaaaa thank you so much friend! (I apologize for the late response on my part - things have gotten incredibly busy on my end huhu--- but know that your message brightened up my day from the moment I first received it!) 😭💖💕💕💕

It means a lot knowing there are others out there who also enjoy the Destiny Bond comic as much as I do making it - I honestly often worry about my writing as I tend to fall into that 'talking heads' or long-dragging-bits-of-dialogue style, especially when it comes to the way I let characters speak and deliver exposition. It's what comes naturally for me I suppose, along with my subconscious decision to panel things like a long-scrolling webtoon, hehe --- but it means the world knowing that you think I've written them well. 🥺🙏✨

And about my linework as well aaaaa that means the world to me !!! 😭😭😭❤️❤️❤️ I think that's why these panels tend to take a while- I like to guarantee that my lineart is polished and flowy enough to my liking, though I do end up overthinking stuff as a result ^^;;

I'm still learning as I go along, so rest assured I am always consciously doing my best to improve in any way I could with every new update! I only want the best for our beloved Johto mystics, after all 🌟💫

Things have also more or less settled over here (this week was definitely more forgiving and kind than the last, thank goodness) --- so bless you for your well wishes! I hope you have a wonderful day ahead as well 🌸

[nooowestayandgetcaught]

Fic: “Comedian’s Night”

read on AO3

Fandom: Teen Titans

Rating: T (for violence/blood)

Summary: Robin investigates trouble in Jump City's local performing arts center and gets the unlikeliest backup.

@flashfictionfridayofficial​​

Getting back from Steel City, and Titans East, for a double-team mission against H.I.V.E. Five, Robin has one mission— the Tower's main computer alerts.

911 calls. Emergency service updates. Police scans. He inspects all waiting to be reviewed. There appears to have been a fair amount of criminal activity before and after Robin left.  No spikes. The Team are still on their way back, so Robin does another data check-through with a more critical eye.

Is that… a skeletal-white face mask, great. Great.

Robin can feel the eye-roll coming, tapping on some of the keyss.

Same suit, same cape, same gadgets—

Same old nonsense.

However, a new distress-signal blinks on the flat computer-panel displays.

Trouble right in middle of Jump City?

Robin considers his options, deciding to alert Cyborg who is still driving everyone else in the T-car and going himself. Someone has to.

*

"How's about I introduce myself, ladies and germs!" she shrills over the heightened chaos. "Ya can call me Duela—the Joker's Daughter!"

No—

Robin groans lightly, his entire body protesting as he turns onto his stomach.

"I'm sure am glad I know sign language!" Duela recites, bending the fingers of a woman's hand she melted off. "Comes in prettieeee HANDY!"

Her high-pitched maniacal laughter echoes through the building.

Damn it—

"Some days, I miss my ex-boyfriend," Duela says gleefully, an the innocent man writhing in pain from his bleeding shoulder. Two razor-sharp playing cards embedded in him. "But my aim is steadily improving, wouldn'ya think?"

Robin drags himself back onto his feet to go to the injured man, clamping his fingers over the wound. It's not life-threatening.

"Take your scarf, apply pressure on it… he's okay, okay?" Robin assures the man's frantic date. "You need to get yourselves out of here."

He blocks them from Duela smirking.

Under the spotlights, her emerald-and-purple outfit glitters.

Duela's exposed flesh has a ghastly white sheen. Maybe a chemical alteration?

That doesn't make her…

"Joker's daughter?" Robin says scoffing, his vision still a little hazy. His muscles tremble. "More like a wannabe clown psycho."

Her smirk widens.

"And who are you? Hmm?" she jeers. "The Ugly Traffic Light Who Could?"

Robin unclips an ammunition disc, switching it on. 

The activation light blinking red. 

"Green means go, right," he quips, throwing the disc at Duela's feet. 

In moments, a stream of concentrated freezing gas bursts out, and Robin moves. He has to see who else is left before—

"NICE TRY!"

The smoke…

Robin feels it inside of him like a burning sick-sensation, growing heavier. 

His knees start to give.

"Night, night," Duela sing-songs, getting out her bullet-firing lipstick.

Robin's vision blurs.

A gigantic red X shoots through the air, colliding into Duela before she's fired her weapon, pinning her to the stage-wall.

"Is that all you got, kid—"

"Some folks just ain't cut out for showbiz—"

*

A deep, coughing wheeze startles Robin awake.

He lifts off the concrete rooftop, dazedly examining himself.

"Take it easy," comes the static-filled voice. Not far off, Red X has a foot on the rooftop's ledge, gazing out into the neon-lit skyline. "You woke up two times already. Puked the first time, and then, you started mumbling in another language the second. But I'm no expert in Western European."

"…did you kill her?" Robin croaks, ignoring how his heart pounds.

"Came close," Red X admits. "She's gonna be going 'night, night' for a while."

"Is this a detour from robbing a bank, X?"

"Saving your life?" 

A loud tutting noise crackles Red X's mask voice-box. 

"You're going to return the museum's jewels you stole…" Robin demands, weakly climbing to his knees. Red X shuffles his dark, leathered boot off the rooftop's ledge. He doesn’t seem very worried about Robin's hand going for his utility belt. Or rather, for no belt. Red X holds up Robin's belt.

"Finders keepers."

"Is that all that matters to you? Being a criminal?"

Robin hesitates, Red X's finger suddenly pushing under his chin, tilting his face.

"Not all…" Red X says.

The whites of Robin's eyelets go big.

Red X drags his fingertip purposefully, tilting Robin's face further up. No, no—Robin struggles against the humiliated blush, jerking away.

A static-snort of laughter.

"Don't drive under the influence, Chuckles," Red X quips, tossing one of the T-communicators. "Call for a ride. Safety first."

"You…"

"And I'll catch ya on the flip-side."

He takes a running leap off the building, which Robin suspects City Hall, vanishing in mid-air. Yep, definitely the same Red X tech.

Same old nonsense…

Robin presses for Cyborg's number, a little defeated.

Great.

[gngvinylfencinginc]

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